Former Georgia wide receiver reveals how he spent first NFL paycheck

Former Georgia Bulldogs wide receiver Zachariah Branch was one of many NFL rookies who discussed what they spent their first NFL paycheck on. According to NFL Nation, Branch spent it on investing in companies in the S&P 500 (Standard and Poor's 500), a stock market index that tracks the performance of 500 of the largest publicly traded companies in the United States. Branch, a 2026 third-round pick by the Atlanta Falcons, wants to be cautious with how he spends his money, the way his parents taught him how to be. "I think I'm all good right now," said Branch. "I don't think I'm in a position to get to doing certain things that's not smart. I'm trying to create generational wealth. So, whatever comes it may come, but right now I think I'm good on the investments and just food, family." He mentioned in the article that he wants to get into real estate, just like his dad, Sheva Branch. Sheva is a prominent realtor in the Las Vegas area, where the family is from. "Trying to get some properties and things like that to expand my real estate portfolio," said Branch. Branch earned a four-year, $7.06 million rookie contract from the Atlanta Falcons. This season, he's making $885K in base salary, and he earned a $398K signing bonus. Branch spent one season with the Georgia Bulldogs, and he made the most of it. He totaled 811 yards and six touchdowns on 81 catches. His 81 receptions broke the record for most single-season receptions by a Georgia Bulldog. His brother, Zion, is still with the Bulldogs as a defensive back. He earned second-team All-SEC honors for his great season, and there were thoughts that he could've been a late first- or early second-round pick. With him earning training camp buzz with the Atlanta Falcons and their uncertain receiver room behind Drake London, he could prove to be a steal for them. Follow UGA Wire on Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) or Threads for more Georgia football coverage! This article originally appeared on UGA Wire: Former Georgia wide receiver reveals how he spent first NFL paycheck